OPTIO

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The Optio was the second in command of a Century. He was appointed by the Centurion whose option it was to chose him. Should the centurion fall in battle he would take command.

The distinguishing features of the Optio was that he carried a silvered knobbed staff, which would be used to encourage the soldiers under his command to carry out orders quickly, he wore a ring on his right hand and carried a leather pouch that contained a wax tablet, on which would be written passwords or orders of the day.

This particular Optio is wearing a mail shirt over a leather arming doublet and has expensive equipment to reflect his rank. He is also wearing torques hanging around his neck which were military awards based on the torques worn by Gallic warriors.